Waikiki Brewing Company

At the corner where Kalakaua Avenue and Ala Moana Boulevard meet, pints of perfectly poured malts clink together in celebration of the 96815's first and only microbrewery, Waikiki Brewing Company. With their inaugural batch bubbling up in the bright and shiny new tanks just a few short months ago, Waikiki Brewing Co.’s hop-adorned taps now flow with everything from pale ales to porters to tasty signature brews like the peppery Jalapeno Mouth, a perfectly executed Amber Ale infused with just enough fresh jalapeno to keep your taste buds intrigued and craving another sip.   

On a sunny Saturday morning, we caught up with Joe Lorenzen, one of the owners, and the idea man behind the brewery, to talk hops, yeasts, milling, mashing and brewing as their Wailele Wheat, a refreshing single hop American Wheat, boiled to life before our very eyes. Joe's story is genuine and inspiring. An at home brewing hobbyist turned Brewmaster via extensive certification coursework with the American Brewers Guild, he presented the idea to his then boss/now business partner to open a brewery in the unused space of the restaurant he managed in Waikiki. After a lot of hard work, blood, sweat and beers, Joe’s dream for the 7-barrel brewhouse was made reality. During our visit, Joe’s eyes lit up with excitement as he explained every aspect of both the creative and technical processes involved in creating the brews currently on rotation. His passion for his craft is palatable in every sip.

Every guest has a front-row seat to the action as the brewery itself is only about 5 feet behind the bar top where any inquiring guest can enjoy brewing masterminds Joe, Nate and Eric eagerly explain the whole brewing process, from grain to glass.  For a refreshing Waikiki experience, grab a handcrafted brew, beer cocktail or some brew-inspired “grinds” with your nearest and dearest under twinkling café lights and the Hawaiian stars. Cheers, Waikiki Brewing Company, and welcome to the 96815!

The 96815 Tip:  I recommend the refreshing Blonde Ale after a long hot Waikiki beach day or the Double E. IIPA, if you need something a little more direct to take the edge off!

Waikiki Brewing Company, 11am - 11pm Daily, ph: 808-946-6590, 1945 Kalakaua Ave, the 96815.

XOX,

Jess in the96815

Guest Post and Photography by: Jessica Tronoski

Candy Bar Hawaii

I will never forget the day I was taking a stroll down Lewers Street and happened upon my latest obsession and cause for undeniable cravings, Candy Bar Hawaii. Inside this decadent destination you will find a tasty mix of unique beach treats. From freshly dipped chocolate covered macadamia nuts to nostalgic gummy coke bottles to nouveau flavored lollipops like Blackberry Cabernet, your eyes will surely be bigger than the gigantic jaw breakers that reside on the Candy Bar counter. Finding it difficult to narrow down the endless options, my handpicked bag is usually a sampling of sweet, sour, tart gummy and hard candies. There's no sweeter pleasure than enjoying a tangy Lemonhead in the sunshine with your toes deep in the sugary sand on Waikiki beach. The thought alone fills me with happiness. Something else that will make you smile is the bubble blowing contest that takes place every Saturday night at the shop. No age discrimination here; everyone at Candy Bar Hawaii is a kid in a candy store. 

The 96815 Tip: Looking for a memorable souvenir or yummy Hawaiian gift? Candy Bar Hawaii has a wide selection of locally made chocolates, vintage Hawaiian lollipops and customized candy box sets for every occasion!

Candy Bar Hawaii, 7 Days a Week, 10AM - 11PM, phone 808-798-9072, 227 Lewers Street, the 96815. 
 

Photography by Jessica Tronoski

Summer Vacation

Awhile back I had the opportunity to collaborate on a photo shoot with my Japanese friends at Always Sunshine Co. We spent the day cruising around in this old VW bus getting some shots for a photo campaign they were working on here. Turns out one of the pictures is being used in a Limited Collection of accessories available at their gallery in Japan! Check them out here! Seeing the photos a few days later evoked a feeling of, I can't believe I am about to say this word, "wanderlust."  I imagined me, the girl in the photos, taking a road trip and getting away from it all. I have to admit the travel bug rarely ever gets me living in Hawaii. We live in paradise, where else could be better? Alas, I scratched the itch and booked a ticket to the mainland. I'm not going anywhere extremely exotic; some time in Pennsylvania, visiting family and a fabulous few days with friends in NYC. It will be a nice change of pace from island life. When I return to the 96815, I'll share some new articles that I think all you Waikiki lovers will enjoy. Until then, Aloha!
 
Summer vacation in progress...
 
XOX, 
 
The 96815

Mu'umu'u Heaven

A few weeks ago, Mu'umu'u Heaven, the stylish eco-friendly boutique, formerly of Kailua, popped up in T Galleria in the heart of the 96815. I attended the wonderful opening event, where guests, adorned in fragrant plumeria leis, sipped on fresh cut coconuts and nibbled on delectable island fare. The party was absolutely lovely and I felt very special that I was among Honolulu's who's who invited to attend. During the festivities, I eyed a gorgeous mu'umu'u caftan that I haven't been able to forget, so I decided to stop back in for a second look. Mu'umu'u's signature up-cycled dresses designed by owner Deb Mascia, effortlessly take you from beach day to tropical night out on the town. And, of course, I couldn't make it out of there without adding a Mu'umu'u Heaven clutch to my collection. Seems like I've had one of these through every phase of life in recent years, bringing me a little aloha and piece of Hawaii wherever I may be.

Shop all the sustainable one of a kind goods at the Mu'umu'u Heaven Pop-Up through June at T Galleria Waikiki. Even the Hawaii themed displays, including the 16 foot palm tree made from thrift store fabric and the Mu'umu'u Heaven hut, is constructed of reused materials.

T Galleria, Daily 11:00am - 10:30pm, Ph. 808 931 2700, 30 Royal Hawaiian Avenue, The 96815.